#23 – LHP Robert Carson

Why Ranked Here: Carson was good, but not overpowering in the SAL at age 20, so he drops a few spots, but remains in a similar position to last year. He’s a big kid from the left side, which bodes well for his durability moving forward. His fastball was mostly 88-91, but he touched 94 although he didn’t work at that range. Either way, it’s average to slightly above velocity from the left side. His slider also comes in with a little above average velocity in the low 80s, but could use some tightening, as is the case with most youngsters. His changeup is clearly his third pitch and whether or not it develops into an effective weapon will help dictate whether he’s a starter or reliever in the end.

2009: Carson’s K/9 dropped from rookie ball in ’08 as did his groundball rate which still remained strong, however. In terms of temporal splits, Carson’s gb% declined every month from 66/7% in April to 46.7 % in August. Was this a result of a change in approach? An indication of poor conditioning? Either way, it’s not a real positive indicator.

Dr. Pangloss Says: Carson’s body, fastball and slider make him a big leaguer, and a potential #3 starter if things break just right.

Debbie Downer Says: Yeah, Carson has a future, but he’s a LOOGY, or if he loses control of his body, a AAA all-star.